Pregnant Dianne Buswell flaunts the iconic Glitterball Trophy in new preview pictures from *Strictly Come Dancing* as the BBC pros perform in daring see-through outfits, and Jessie J sings her heart out.
The hit dance competition is back on our screens this Saturday, and delighted fans cannot wait. Glittering new images give viewers a tantalising sneak peek at the theatrical scenes to come, featuring hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman.
The dynamic duo’s contrasting personalities are perfectly embodied by their outfits. Claudia is pictured in a jaw-dropping ruched black dress, with her characteristic smoky kohl liner and sharp-cut bangs. Meanwhile, Tess wows in a fuchsia ensemble paired with striking silver stilettos, her blonde curls worn down.
Also returning to our screens are beloved judges Shirley Ballas, Motsi Mabuse, Craig Revel Horwood, and Anton Du Beke, as well as special guest Jessie J. The pop idol, sporting her signature black bob, is seen belting out a ballad that forms the score for a dramatic ballroom-esque dance unfolding on stage.
Most exciting of all are the dramatic snaps from the dazzling group number, which sees the contestants take the stage in various shades of blue for an upbeat jazzy routine. Pregnant Dianne looks incredible in a bejewelled tassel dress as she is lifted into the air by a muscly dance partner.
Yesterday, Claudia Winkleman lifted the lid on what it’s really like to work alongside Tess Daly and revealed a bizarre backstage tradition hidden from cameras. Asked what she has learned from her co-host, Claudia was quick to lavish praise.
“She’s the kindest and the greatest human anyone could wish to work with. I’m so lucky to do it with her,” she said.
Claudia admitted that moments before the cameras roll, she has two must-do traditions: “I must eat crisps and I always squeeze Tess before we go live. I get very, very nervous.”
Despite the nerves, Claudia still feels a surge of excitement each time a new series launches. “I get so excited. We’re so lucky to work on such a show. The build-up to all of our celebrities dancing is palpable. I can’t wait to see them on the dance floor.”
It is this sense of anticipation, she believes, that keeps *Strictly* at the heart of British television.
“It’s like a snow globe of a show and it signals Christmas is coming and that’s always good. It’s just so sparkly and the music is amazing and we love watching people try and learn a new skill and of course the professional group dances are jaw-dropping.”
Reflecting on a particularly emotional routine, Claudia recalled, “Chris and Dianne were such a fantastic pair, and when he danced to *You’ll Never Walk Alone* everyone in the studio was tearful.”
This year’s line-up is already promising plenty of drama and sparkle, with names including Alex Kingston, Dani Dyer, Vicky Pattison, Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink, and Ellie Goldstein, all dancing under the watchful eyes of judges Craig Revel Horwood, Motsi Mabuse, Anton Du Beke, and Shirley Ballas.
Her co-host Tess Daly is equally excited to be back at the helm, revealing that the launch show is always her personal highlight.
“The most exciting part of the entire series for me, bar the final, has to be meeting the new cast of celebrities,” she explained. “The highlight of the launch show is watching that first group dance the very first time we see the celebrities step on the dance floor.”
“From that moment, I’ve learnt to spot who has the potential to make it all the way through the competition.”
Tess also echoed Claudia’s reflections on their long-standing friendship. She described working with her partner-in-glitter as “an absolute joy.”
“Claude and I have worked together for so many years now that we have watched each other’s children grow into young adults. What has she taught me? That I should never wear mascara to our script meetings because she has me laughing so much I end up crying it all off.”
“This will be our 21st year of *Strictly* and we do not take it lightly when people tell us they cannot wait for the new series to start again.”
“It is a privilege to be a part of their Saturday (and Sunday!) nights, and to be part of a show that brings families and friends together.”
*Strictly Come Dancing* returns to BBC One this Saturday at 6.40 pm and will be available to stream on iPlayer.
https://www.dailymail.co.uk/tv/article-15114447/strictly-come-dancing-preview-dianne-buswell-jessie-j.html?ns_mchannel=rss&ns_campaign=1490&ito=1490
